Ken Thomson, Marketing Manager of Stirling District Tourism – the charity that operates The National Wallace Monument said, “The story of William Wallace has fascinated and inspired people from around the world for centuries and continues to be a big draw for visitors to Scotland today.

“The National Wallace Monument, built in his honour 150 years ago, now attracts over a hundred thousand visitors eachyear, each of whom leave with a deeper understanding of Wallace and the legacy he left behind.

“2019 has been an exciting year for the Monument – our interior exhibition spaces were totally transformed, and we have held a programme of special events throughout the year, as westrive to tell the fascinating story of William Wallace to both the people of Scotland and visitors from all over the world better than it has ever been told before.”

Actor Sam Heughan is one of a number of stars to have visited the landmark

Neil Christison, VisitScotland Regional Director, added, “The National Wallace Monument is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and a beacon for the country’s history and culture.

“Reaching the 150th anniversary is an incredible achievement for the staff there and the many predecessors who came before them.

“It is right then that we celebrate them and the man himself with the Wallace 150 and Wallace Wha’ Hae events.

“Wallace and his monument have made a huge impression on visitors and as times have changed so has the visitor experience on the Abbey Craig meaning it is still going strong a century and half later.

“We need to create world class experiences, events and attractions to keep up with ever-changing visitor demands.

“Tourism is more than a holiday experience – it is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy and touches every community, generating income, jobs and social change.”